Activision Blizzard today confirmed to investors that they have begun negotiating with the Communications Workers of America following the formation of a union for Raven Software’s QA department.
In a letter to investors, Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick confirmed that negotiations have begun and that 27 quality assurance employees at Raven Software are being represented by the union.
Kotick writes: “I wanted to share the news that we will begin negotiations with the Communications Workers of America related to the 27 quality assurance employees at Raven Software, the majority of whom have chosen to be represented by this union. With the election having concluded, we will engage in good faith negotiations to enter into a collective bargaining agreement.
“While first labor contracts can take some time to complete, we will meet CWA leaders at the bargaining table and work toward an agreement that supports the success of all our employees, that further strengthens our commitment to create the industry’s best, most welcoming and inclusive workplace, and enhances our ability to deliver world class games for our players.”
Today’s news follows months of unionization efforts from Raven Software QA staff. A walkout was planned in December 2021, and the following month it was announced that staff were unionizing with the CWA following a strike.
It was also reported that Activision Blizzard shareholders were advised to vote against an employee-elected board member. Despite those efforts, a groundbreaking union was formed, and is today officially recognized. Time will tell whether or not other departments and studios will begin unionizing by following Raven Software’s example.
Written by Dave Aubrey on behalf of GLHF.
